First, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and minced ginger, sautéing until they are tender and fragrant, which takes about four minutes. You want the shallot to become translucent and the ginger to release its aromatic oils.
Next, add the minced garlic and continue sautéing for another thirty seconds. You’ll notice the garlic starts to turn golden and fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.
Stir in the curry powder, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Cook while stirring constantly for about thirty seconds until the spices are fully combined and aromatic. You should see a beautiful blend of colors and a delightful aroma.
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the coconut milk and fish sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for a few minutes. You want to blend the flavors well, and the sauce should begin to thicken slightly.
Now it’s time to prepare your slow cooker. Place the chicken thighs, carrots, and sweet potato in the cooker. Pour the aromatic sauce over the top, making sure everything is well-coated. This is where all the magic happens!
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for five hours or HIGH for two and a half hours. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easily shred with a fork when it’s done. After a few hours, take a moment to savor the delicious aromas coming from your kitchen.
When the cooking time is complete, taste the dish and add Kosher salt according to your preference. Usually, one to two teaspoons is sufficient, but adjust to fit your taste.
In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of cool water with the cornstarch until dissolved. Slowly add this mixture to your curry and gently stir to thicken the sauce. Let it cook for one to two minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Finally, serve the Slow Cooker Coconut Chicken Curry over a bed of freshly steamed rice. Don’t forget to garnish with basil strips if you’re using them. This adds a lovely fresh touch that brightens the whole dish.
